Ut Medical Group Inc Head & Neck Surgery

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Welcome to the Division of Head and Neck Surgery in the Department of Otolaryngology where there is a rich tradition of excellence in the care of patients suffering from cancer of the head and neck.
In addition to cancer, we also specialize in the treatment of a variety of diseases affecting the head and neck region such as tumors of the mouth, nose and sinuses, throat and remote locations within the skull base, disorders of the salivary glands, as well as diseases of the thyroid and parathyroid glands.
Our mission is to provide comprehensive, compassionate and most up-to-date treatment to our patients, remain at the forefront of research to fight head and neck cancer, and train physicians of tomorrow who will carry forth our legacy of excellence in head and neck surgery.

A Story of Head and Neck Cancer Survival
An estimated 40,000 to 50,000 Americans are diagnosed with head and neck cancer each year. About one-fourth of them die from the disease. Early detection drastically improves the chances of survival. In honor of National Cancer Survivors Day, UTMG salutes Sharon Jenkins-Muse, who celebrates her fourth year as a head and neck cancer survivor this month.

Every physician is different when it comes to how dental health is handled. All head and neck cancer patients receiving radiation should have a dental evaluation. If there are any questionable teeth, they must be removed. If the teeth are in direct line of treatment, some oral surgeons will suggest that all teeth come out.
The mouth contains several sets of saliva glands. When these glands are radiated, they do not function properly or they are damaged to the point of not working at all. These glands are usually not spared because the margin of treatment around the cancer is very important to prevent spread of the disease. The saliva glands produce spit, which contains an acid that keeps the enamel on your teeth hard. Without this acid, teeth begin to break down and can eventually break off.

Helping HANDS Extended H.A.N.D.S - Head and Neck Disease Support
In 2005 in the United States 39,000 men and women will be diagnosed with head and neck cancer. Support groups have been found to be instrumental in patients coping with acute and long-term side effects. The HANDS group would like to send a special invitation to all of you dealing with your disease alone.
We have been there and we can answer questions from experience. If you cannot attend meetings but would like to talk with someone who’s been there, please call 901-347-8314 and you will be given the name and number of a support group member that would love to help.

Information and links found on UT Medical Group, Inc.'s web sites are neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you think you may have a medical emergency call your healthcare provider immediately.